Sennheiser PMX 80 Sport 2 headset

Although the PMX 80s look like an ear-gouging instrument of torture, they're actually quite comfortable. The wraparound headset provides the right amount of springiness, keeping them in place without doing too much actual gouging. The only issue is that they do tend to catch a bit on polo-shirt collars, so the activeware wardrobe may need a bit of adjustment.

If you've got used to in-ear, sound-isolating buds then these may be a bit of a disappointment. The design means that quite a lot of noise from the outside world creeps in, and in a noisy gym that's not ideal. Outside though, it's probably for the best. You don't want to be jogging along a busy street or park in a sound-proof cocoon, oblivious of your surroundings.

If you are in a quiet enough place to appreciate it, sound quality is surprisingly good for a £20 set, but it's clear that these earphones are designed for sports fans rather than audiophiles. And the practicalities are well taken care of. The cable is of a sensible length that will reach to your pockets without tripping you up, while the soft, rubberised finish insulates well and cuts out the creaking and tapping sounds often conducted along the wire, especially if you're being energetic.

With their bright orange cable and trim, they're not the most subtle of earphones. You will look a bit silly, but if you're prepared to jog in public that's probably a hurdle you've already crossed.